Truthfulness is integral to sanity. When we speak our truth we are in alignment with who we are. When we speak a common truth we are reliable, trustworthy, and strong.

Years ago I was given the suggestion of being explicitly honest in all of my matters. I took that very seriously. How can I play at this business of life with this particular rule of the game? Often it would be easier to lie, but I stick to my rule of the game and am truthful. What I’m using is the game rule of explicit truth and it has been life enhancing. The little white lies that I thought didn’t matter are gone, and are replaced with compassionate truth.

In the past, when I wanted to get what I wanted I might have lied but now I ask for help and support in getting my need met.

I lied because I didn’t think I could get what I needed and wanted by telling the truth. I lied saying everyone else lies too, but they don’t. In becoming more honest I saw that most people are indeed honest. When I call the DWP they tell me the information I need and want. When I ask the public trash collector to correct an error they do it and in the time assured.

Friends and strangers prefer speaking the truth. When someone asks you what you need or want and you tell them what you think they want to hear you are doing everyone a disservice. There is no way to actually know what they are thinking, and by not being honest with them or yourself you have denied them the opportunity to help you get what you want.

Being truthful was not something I learned in my family of origin, but as a kid it was something I valued. When I became an adult I went about finding my way to speaking the truth, and my truth. Now I am a person with integrity, honor and the ability to carry out my intentions. All of these abilities add up to the capacity to give and receive love. Love is what heals us and enriches our lives.

Let’s be clear: I am not perfect with this, I am human. However, I am conscious of it and strive to be truthful. We can tell when someone is lying and we can hear when someone is speaking truth and kindness. In traveling, we are constantly reminded that most people are good and honest, and we are heartened possessing this knowing. Life is about giving and receiving love, truth, money, humor and compassion.